Mythbusting: Understanding Mortgage Myths and Why They Shouldn’t Hold You Back

Mythbusting: Understanding Mortgage Myths and Why They Shouldn't Hold You BackWith the fluctuations in real estate and the increasing cost of home ownership, many people are entering the market with more trepidation these days. Fortunately, there are a number of myths associated with buying a home that may not adversely affect potential home buyers. If you’re interested in purchasing a home but are unsure about whether it will get approved, here are a few things you may want to dispel.

No Approval With Less Than 20 Percent

While putting 20 percent down can help you avoid having to pay private mortgage insurance, this down payment percentage is still just a suggestion when it comes to mortgages. It’s necessary to put a certain percentage down and be able to drum up the money on your own, but if getting into the market is your priority, buying now may be worth the investment over time. It’s just important to remember that the cost of your monthly payment should be affordable for the long term.

Home Ownership Is Too Expensive

It’s certainly the case that the real estate market is always fluctuating and prices can go up or down, but generally speaking, a home will increase in value over time and that means your monthly payment will be something you can consider an investment. While monthly rent disappears as soon as the calendar month is over, the money you invest into a home month after month builds up your equity and ensures greater stability for your financial future.

You Must Have A Good Credit Report

While it will definitely help your mortgage application if you possess good credit, it’s not necessarily a deal breaker if you don’t. Each mortgage is assessed based on a combination of factors that can include your down payment amount and your debt-to-income ratio, so this means that if you have a higher down payment and a less impressive credit report, you can still be approved. It’s a good idea to pay your bills on time and get your debt down if you’re applying for a mortgage, but there are opportunities for potential buyers who have experienced credit issues.

Home ownership is an important dream for many people, and as a result, there are many myths associated with the mortgage process. However, even if you don’t have 20 percent down or perfect credit, there are still opportunities for improving your financial well-being and investing in a home. If you’re currently looking for a new home, give me a call for more information – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

Click Here to See What Your Home is Worth

7471 E Sunnyvale Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$1,935,000
4 Beds
4 Baths
3,472 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6745482
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
The best of everything! Full 2023 renovation with on-trend design & finishes, guard-gated security, 3CG, & a premium lot steps from gym/Shops at Gainey Village. The 21' high great room is filled with natural light. European white oak floors & LED lighting throughout the home. Open concept kitchen features Azzurra Bay quartzite stone counters. Fisher & Paykel appliance package includes induction range & Alder cabinet front fridge/freezer. Main level offers ensuite bedroom & den/optional 5th BR. Large primary suite features luxurious bath w/ steam shower, soaking tub, dual vanities + makeup counter, custom WIC cabinetry. Rare, deep yard is private w/ turf, pool, BBQ & fruit trees. Amazing house that will appeal to lock-n-leave buyers & those looking for turn-key within 3C's school district.

351 N Sky View Street Flagstaff, AZ 86004

$1,935,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,891 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6680475
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Escape to your own secluded paradise nestled amidst 3 wooded acres, boasting breathtaking views of the majestic San Francisco Peaks. This contemporary masterpiece offers a luxurious retreat with just under 5,000 square feet of meticulously crafted living space. Step inside to discover two primary suites upstairs, an additional bedroom on the main level, and a chef's kitchen fit for culinary indulgence. Entertain in style with a separate eat-in area, formal dining room, and a spacious living room featuring a sleek wet bar, all while soaking in panoramic views through expansive windows. Experience unparalleled privacy with a gated entrance and tranquil enclosed courtyards, while the 3-car garage ensures convenience. Pamper yourself in the dedicated exercise room and unwind in the endless pool, or enjoy outdoor adventure in the dedicated dog park complete with ponds and rivers. Embrace a lifestyle of sophistication and serenity in this remarkable sanctuary, where every detail is thoughtfully designed to elevate your living experience amidst nature's splendor.

12314 E Black Rock Road Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,931,995
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,860 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6767177
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
*NEW CONSTRUCTION: SUMMER 2025 COMPLETION. Interior Finishes have been added!* Stunning Callum floor plan with Spanish Contemporary exterior under construction on a private home site! Gorgeous 14' ceilings, a casita with private entrance and 3 outdoor spaces are some of the reasons this plan is a top seller. Professionally designed, tasteful neutral color scheme. Additional upgrades include SS Wolf appliances, a double oven, 48'' Sub Zero Fridge & extended Kitchen island. The great room has a 72'' linear fireplace & a 16' multi-slide pocket door, perfect for cozy nights at home. This is the low-maintenance, LUXURY, lock & leave home you have been waiting for! Located in the stunning guard-gated community, Sereno Canyon. The ultimate resort lifestyle community in North Scottsdale by Toll Brothers. Come take a tour today!

39349 N 107th Way Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$1,925,000
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
2,576 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6773588
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This Bing Hu designed home is the epitome of luxury and craftsmanship in the highly sought after community of Desert Mountain. The entire home has been totally reimagined and recreated using the finest materials and finishes expertly crafted by AB Design Elements and Allhaus. Every detail has been thoughtfully customized to evoke a sense of warmth and style. The completely redesigned kitchen and great room invite gatherings with friends and family. The Primary Suite offers privacy and tranquility while being enveloped in lavish ambiance. A well-appointed guest suite will not disappoint. The outdoor living spaces offer spectacular views of the 7th hole of the Apache Golf Course complementing the expansive private patio with a heated spa, large gas fire pit and outdoor kitchen. Homebuyer may make application to join the Desert Mountain Club's Full Golf Membership Wait List (the Wait List). Homebuyer's Application for Membership must be approved and all Wait List requirements must be met to join the Wait List. While on the Wait List, homebuyer may be offered the opportunity to have club use privileges by obtaining a Full Lifestyle Membership or a Full Seven Golf Membership with the requirement to upgrade to a Full Golf Membership once it becomes available. Wait List times vary. Please contact the Desert Mountain Club for details.

3110 E Georgia Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85016

$1,925,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
2,600 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6775617
Property Type Townhouse
Price Type --
Welcome to this charming single-level home, nestled on the lake in the gated community of Village on the Lakes at the Biltmore. Completely renovated in 2015, this home was designed with attention to every detail. From the moment you approach, you're greeted by an inviting front courtyard with a beautiful outdoor seating area, complemented by travertine pavers that guide you to the front entrance. Inside, you'll find three spacious bedrooms, three and a half bathrooms, soaring vaulted ceilings & numerous windows that enhance the home's open, airy feel. The kitchen features custom cabinetry, stunning Taj Mahal quartz countertops, premium KitchenAid appliances, and a dedicated bar and beverage fridge area, making it a dream for both cooking and entertaining. The primary bedroom is a retreat offering the perfect blend of luxury and relaxation. Large sliding doors open to the backyard, allowing you to wake up to breathtaking views of the lake and golf course. The primary bathroom is equally impressive, with a double vanity, spacious walk-in shower, and his-and-hers closets. The backyard is an entertainer's paradise, boasting travertine pavers, a breathtaking ficus tree, a beautiful water feature, low-maintenance artificial grass and a cozy backyard fire-pit. With its private setting, the backyard delivers peace and serenity, framed by stunning views of both the lake and golf course. Additional features include a two-car garage and easy walking access to scenic green belts, upscale shopping, dining, and all the Biltmore area has to offer. This is more than just a homeit's a lifestyle defined by elegance, privacy, and some of the most breathtaking views available. Don't miss this rare opportunity to own a true gem in the desert!

31550 N 70th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$1,925,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,876 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6757631
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This property is the one you've been waiting for! It is located in magnificent North Scottsdale on 2.5 acres & has no HOA. It comes with a detached casita, an additional garage plus a RV garage. The property offers easy access to Scottsdale Road, the 101, and the towns of Cave Creek and Carefree. 70th St is paved & the extra large half-circle driveway has been redesigned and landscaped. One acre of land is still available for building, and the property is zoned for horses. The main home at 2968 sf features a family room w/ a built-in office, wet bar & wine room. The primary bedroom is very spacious with 12+ foot ceilings, another office, a sunny sitting room, jetted tub & an oversized walk-in closet. There are four newer HVAC systems. The detached casita is an additional 908 sf & can... serve as a perfect space for an extended family, a home business, an art studio, etc. An attached garage and an RV garage are large enough to fit a Class A coach. Plus, there is additional slab parking. The courtyard exudes a resort-like ambiance, making it a perfect retreat for relaxation and entertainment. The rooftop observation deck offers breathtaking sunset views, while the propane fire pits create a warm and inviting atmosphere. With a covered patio equipped with misters and a BBQ area, it's an ideal setting for gatherings and enjoying the outdoor Arizona lifestyle. Nearby, you'll find some of the finest dining and shopping options in Scottsdale, with Kierland Commons and Scottsdale Quarter just a short drive away. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to Pinnacle Peak Park, offering hiking trails with stunning views. Additionally, top-rated schools and world-class golf courses are conveniently located in the area, making this property an ideal choice for a variety of lifestyles. This private and enchanting property is ready for you, your family, your toys, your home business, your art studio, your RV/coach, and your horses. Make it yours today! Professional photography is coming soon.

26005 N 107th Way Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$1,925,000
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
3,720 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6773941
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Resort-style living with sweeping Pinnacle Peak, sunset & city light views await you in Scottsdale's guard-gated Windy Walk community, adjacent to Troon Country Club. Every room offers its own unique ambiance with stunning views as the backdrop. The primary suite features a cozy fireplace and attached office (could be converted to a guest suite). The oversized guest suite also boasts a walk-in closet. While you may feel like you're on vacation here, the kitchen is ready for serious cooking with an oversized separate fridge & freezer, double ovens, gas stove & abundant storage. Outdoors, relax on expansive covered patios, unwind by the fireplace or pool, practice your putting, or host a barbecue-it's all here! Plus you're nearby the Four Seasons Hotel , Troon North Golf, hiking & more!

9853 N 48th Place Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$1,925,000
3 Beds
2.5 Baths
3,055 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6782914
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautiful, fully remodeled home in the unique Taliesin Architect (John Rattenbury studied from and worked with Frank Lloyd Wright ) designed Paradise Valley neighborhood. The home sits on an epic, near half acre lot, surrounded by mature trees, landscaping and beauty. The expansive driveway has an oversized carport that makes you feel as if you're checking into a boutique hotel. Everything is custom built, including a large glass pivot entry door, 9'' Oak engineered hardwood floors, Venetian Plaster master bath with Dutch Design Cabinetry and a steamist steam shower, huge tub with large glass windows and water that cascades down from the ceiling. Chef kitchen featuring Subzero Wolf Beverage Refrigerator, and much more. Excellent Schools, Very close to Shea & Tatum, grocery stores. Own/Agen

39220 N 30th Drive Phoenix, AZ 85086

$1,900,000
4 Beds
5.5 Baths
3,800 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6731365
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream retreat, where luxury meets adventure! Nestled in a secluded, gated community, this custom estate home is a haven for RV and off-road enthusiasts. With a 4-car extended-length garage and an attached RV garage, you'll have ample space to store your vehicles and gear, ready for your next journey. Step through the elegant steel and glass doors into a world of opulence. The grand entrance features soaring 12-foot ceilings and an open great room with panoramic doors that invite the outdoors in. Cozy up by the electric fireplace or enjoy the seamless flow to the expansive pavered patio, perfect for relaxing or entertaining. The chef's kitchen is a culinary masterpiece with a separate induction cook-top, wall oven, microwave, and a generous butler's pantry with sink The enormous island and matching cabinetry extend into the dining area, providing a stylish and functional space for meals and gatherings. Enjoy the seamless flow of 8-foot interior doors and wood-look plank tile throughout, enhancing the open and airy feel of the split floor plan. The primary bedroom is a retreat of its own, featuring a private exit to your personal patio and a luxurious bathroom with a large walk-in shower, large soaking tub, separate vanities, leading to a spacious closet with a dressing table that connects to the laundry room. For those who work or need extra space, there's an office/den and a convenient half bath for guests. The three guest bedrooms each come with a private en suite, ensuring comfort and privacy for all your visitors. Don't miss the additional amenities like the large, open and pavered patio with another full bathroom. As well as 400 AMP panel in the garage and the central vac system, adding convenience and efficiency to your home. This estate is more than just a home, it's a gateway to endless adventures and ultimate comfort. Make it yours and start living the life you've always dreamed of!

9811 W Monte Lindo -- Peoria, AZ 85383

$1,900,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,853 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6772283
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Beautiful residence sitting on a desired corner lot! This resort style beauty offers a fenced grassy front yard & a welcoming courtyard. Come inside to find formal dining, wood-style flooring throughout, fire sprinklers, a gas fireplace in the living area, & 4-panel sliding pocket doors that merge perfectly the indoor/outdoor living areas giving you the resort feel. Create gourmet dishes in the eat-in kitchen showcasing SS appliances w/double ovens, quartz counters, subway backsplash, farmhouse sink, & a large breakfast bar island. The flexible den boasting double doors is perfect for an office, game area, media room, yoga studio, etc. Retreat to the split owner's suite to discover private backyard access & a lavish bathroom. Too many upgrades to list! Two vanities, a glass enclosure shower, a soaking tub, & oversized walk-in closet complete the main bathroom. You will love the Jack & Jill bathroom with a convenient dual sink vanity. Utility sink & plenty of cabinets in the laundry room! Oasis-style backyard has a sparkling blue pool & spa combo w/lovely waterfall that is the heart of the backyard, a Ramada, grass area, covered patio, & ample dog run w/pet door leading into the house. Don't miss the air conditioned 3-car sided garage, paver driveway for extra parking, & RV gate. This home combines comfort & elegance. Seize this opportunity!

51414 W Pete Road Aguila, AZ 85320

$1,900,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
6,556 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6659027
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
This magnificent Property offers Hacienda Style Architecture reminiscent of Spanish Living plus a 52' x 80' Hangar with Pilot's Lounge. Chef's Kitchen boasts Wolfe Range, Kol-Gard Commercial Refrigerator, Traditional & Baker's Islands, Conversation Counter & Separate walk-in Server's Pantry. Complete with Formal Dining Room, Great Room Dance Floor, Wet Bar, Spa, Atrium, multiple Fireplaces, Den & Office, it's ideal for personal Luxury or Entertaining. The spacious Primary Suite features multiple Bath areas, Large walk-in Closet & Sitting Room. Guest Rooms have Private Exits. Enjoy Outdoor Living on the Covered Patio. The 52' x 80' Hangar features Pilots' Lounge, Shop, Storage Room & Sunshade Port. Propane & Diesel Fuel Tanks plus RV parking add to the convenience of Airpark living. Property is on 5 acres with Private Well, Well House & Detached Garage in a Gated Airpark with HOA & CCR's. State Land across the street to the South. Community has a 3,906' paved, lighted runway, paved taxiways/streets & community center for great gatherings. See Document Tab for Additional Features. THIS IS AN ACTIVE AIRPARK. PLEASE YIELD TO PLANES. DO NOT CROSS, DRIVE OR WALK DOWN RUNWAY.

7220 N 185th Avenue Waddell, AZ 85355

$1,900,000
3 Beds
2 Baths
1,000 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6691951
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Here's your chance to one a piece of Waddell history...the iconic LITTLE KENTUCKY! Equestrians, trainers, breeders, this is the property you have been looking for. Offering an impressive 140 x 250 covered arena, 3 enclosed barns offering 16x16 stalls fully trimmed out with high pressure mister systems, water and electric, the large barn also offers a workshop shop and trainers office with kitchenette area, there is an additional 4 stall shed row offering 12x 32 stalls, 60' trainers round pen, hot walker, covered hay storage, several tack and storage areas, wash rack,. multiple pastures, exercise track, 32 stalls in total and not to mention the very comfortable and nicely appointed 3 bedroom apartment AND ASK US ABOUT THE POSSIBILITY OF PURCHASING THE MAIN HOME AND ADDTIONAL 4 ACRES!!!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.